Pattaya —

Pattaya City is advancing towards becoming a smart city by promoting eco-friendly transportation.

As part of this initiative, the city has recently received 12 fully electric Hilux Revo–e pickup trucks from Toyota Thailand to be used as public Songthaews around the city. These vehicles are operated by the Pattaya Bus Cooperative and currently run on four routes, including:

• Route 4 (5 vehicles): Laem Bali Hai – Banglamung District Office
• Route 5 (3 vehicles): Naklua – Jomtien
• Route 6 (3 vehicles): South Pattaya – Naklua
• Route 7 (1 vehicle): North Pattaya – Jomtien

According to Pattaya Mayor Mr. Poramase Ngampiches, the project is part of the “Sustainable Prototype City Free from Pollution” initiative, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from transportation in Pattaya and lay the foundation for a pollution-free public transportation system.

The electric Songthaews are expected to be in service from April 2024 to December 2025. So far, more than 4,500 people have used the service, covering a total distance of over 335,000 kilometers.

Mr. Poramase also revealed that Pattaya will soon house Thailand’s first hydrogen station for fuel-cell electric vehicles. He said, “The station will power Toyota’s vehicles for long-distance travel, possibly between U-Tapao Airport, Pattaya, and Chonburi.”

“Private companies venturing into the electric scooter market face hurdles as Pattaya reassesses regulatory frameworks,” stated Mayor Poramase.

Pattaya, Thailand – Soi 6 is gearing up for its annual weekend street event, set to take place on June 12th and 13th. The festivities will run throughout the Soi’s typical opening hours, generally from around 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM, though this can vary slightly between bars.

Soi 6 is one of Pattaya’s most iconic streets, home to numerous bars, entertainment venues, restaurants, hotels, and various smaller shops. Situated in North Pattaya near the Runway market, it’s a well-known landmark for tourists seeking to experience a piece of Pattaya’s historic and cultural scene.

During the festival, participating bars will be marked with balloons to indicate their involvement in the massive celebration. Many bars will feature special themes, staff in themed outfits, complimentary food, and free shots for paying customers. Some bars will even host party games and offer special prizes or raffles. This annual event traditionally brings together enthusiasts of the lively street for drinking, socializing, and making new friends.

Related:Annual Soi 6 Party

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Pattaya, the Soi 6 party is a fantastic opportunity to experience the vibrant nightlife and connect with fellow revelers. Mark your calendars for June 12th and 13th, and join in the fun at Soi 6!

See you at the Soi 6 Party along with thousands of others, including many singles looking to mingle.

Here is a look at the top national stories in Thailand, selected by our Pattaya News/TPN National team, from last week, Monday, May 13th, to Sunday, May 19th, 2024.

These stories are listed in the order of their publication date and are not ranked by importance.

1. Prime Minister’s Visit to Kanchanaburi Highlights Cannabis Reclassification Debate

During his visit to Kanchanaburi, the Thai Prime Minister addressed the public regarding the proposed reclassification of cannabis as an illegal narcotic, warning it could cause internal conflict within the coalition government parties. Mr. Prasitchai Nunual, the secretary-general of the Network for Shaping the Future of Thai Cannabis, along with representatives from various sectors, submitted a letter to Thai Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin, urging reconsideration of cannabis criminalization. Deputy Government Spokesman Mr. Karom Phonphonklang, from the Bhumjaithai Party, also voiced concerns over this potential reclassification, highlighting the ongoing and heated debate.

2. Dugong Deaths in Andaman Sea Raise Environmental Concerns

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) of Thailand has reported the deaths of at least 20 dugongs in the Andaman Sea since the beginning of 2024. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need to address environmental challenges to protect Thailand’s marine life and ensure the survival of the endangered dugong species.

3. Death of Political Activist Bung Thaluwang

Ms. Netiporn Sanesangkhom, known in Thai as Bung Thaluwang, a political activist from Thaluwang, passed away from cardiac arrest after a 108-day hunger strike. Thai national media reported that political activists gathered at Ratchada Criminal Court for candlelight vigils in her memory. Additionally, a group of activists submitted a letter to an ad hoc committee at the Thai parliament, seeking amnesty for individuals charged with political crimes under Section 112, also known as Lese Majeste.

4. Investigation of Loose Tiger Cub in Chachoengsao

Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director-general of the Thai National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation Department, ordered an investigation into the case of a tiger cub on the loose in Bang Pakong, Chachoengsao. He confirmed that the animal was indeed a tiger and provided an update on the situation.

5. Preparations for the 19th International Vesak Day

Thailand is preparing to host the 19th International Vesak Day, which will honor His Majesty the King’s 72nd Birthday Anniversary this year. Visakha Bucha Day, also known as Vesak, will be observed on May 22nd, 2024. It is a public holiday in Thailand, and the sale of alcoholic beverages will be prohibited in convenience stores and entertainment venues on this religious holiday, as per Thai law.